updated 11/25/2019: changed the median salaries to the most recent data from the BLS from 2018. All top 10 jobs stayed the same, except solar photovoltaic installers dropped from #10 to #13 and was replaced by Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers, and Tapers in the #10 spot. All occupations have seen a median salary increase from 2014-2018.
Being a construction worker is truly satisfying, because at the end of the project you have a tangible product you can admire for all your hard work. You get up early, you work long hours in less than ideal conditions, and you sweat a lot. But, even though many find it satisfying, the main reason we work is for money.
In a report published in September of 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) analyzed the median pay of 19 different construction jobs that only require a high school diploma or equivalent, like a GED. Based on their findings, it appears that construction workers, overall are much better off than most industries, as the median pay for those in the construction industry in general was $41,380 in May of 2014 versus $35,540 for all other occupations. That equals a 16.4% yearly salary premium more than non-construction workers.
Let’s get to the top 10 list:
10. Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers, and Tapers
2018 median pay: $45,180
Job description: Drywall and ceiling tile installers hang wallboard and install ceiling tile inside buildings. Tapers prepare the wallboard for painting, using tape and other materials.
9. Carpenters
2018 median pay: $46,590
Job description: generally, carpenters frame and finish structures, such as doorframes, stairways, rafters, among others.
8. Construction Equipment Operators
2018 median pay: $46,990
Job description: drive heavy construction equipment, such as loaders, dozers, and excavators. Construction equipment can be very dangerous to operate, so it’s important to be very well trained and stay aware of your surroundings.
7. Sheet Metal Workers
2018 median pay: $48,460
Job description: fabricate and/or install products made from thin metal sheets, such as HVAC duct work.
6. Ironworkers
2018 median pay: $52,770
Job description: install structural steel and other reinforcing steel
5. Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
2018 median pay: $53,910
Job description: install the piping for waste, water, gas and vent lines.
4. Electricians
2018 median pay: $55,190
Job description: install and repair electrical systems, including lighting, controls, communication wiring.
3. Construction and Building Inspectors
2018 median pay: $59,700
Job description: examine and verify that application building codes are being followed on specific construction job sites
2. Boilermakers
2018 median pay: $62,150
Job description: install and repair boilers and other systems that hold liquids or gases.
1. Elevator Installers and Repairers
2018 median pay: $78,780
Job description: install and repair elevators. Far and away the highest paid of all construction trades.
The BLS also included 9 other construction jobs and their median salaries:
19. Construction Laborer and Helper: $34,810
18. Painters, Construction and Maintenance: $38,940
17. Roofers: $39,970
16. Flooring Installers and Tile and Marble Setters: $40,830
15. Insulation Workers: $41,910
14. Hazardous Materials Removal Workers: $42,030
13. Solar Photovoltaic Installers: $42,680
12. Glaziers: $43,550
11. Masonry Workers: $44,810
To stay up-to-date on our latest posts, follow us on social media by clicking the buttons below!
